Mike Budnick

Michael Joe Budnick

• Bats Right, Throws Right
• Height 6' 1", Weight 200 lb.
• Debut April 18, 1946
• Final Game June 22, 1947
• Born September 15, 1919 in Astoria, OR USA
• Died December 2, 1999 in Seattle, WA USA

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Biographical Information

Mike Budnick, a native of the Pacific Northwest, was signed to a contract following his high school graduation by the Seattle Rainiers of the PCL. He was part of a touring company of ballplayers who entertained troops during World War II. He pitched for the New York Giants after the war, enjoying a solid rookie season in 1946. Budnick finished 2-3 with a 3.16 ERA and 3 saves in 35 games (7 starts) and 88 1/3 innings. On August 4, 1946, he tossed a six hit shutout against the Pittsburgh Pirates at the Polo Grounds. Following 7 rough appearances, to a 10.50 ERA, in 1947, he was cooked as a big leaguer.

Budnick was later the coach at the University of Washington in 1956 after coaching the fresman team the previous year. He also coached the semi-pro Cheney Studs from 1954 to 1960. In 1962, he ran unsuccessfully for sheriff of King's County, State of Washington (the County in which Seattle is located). He died of cancer at the age of 80 in 1999.